Addiction - describing addiction Flashcards
What is addiction?
Addiction is a disorder in which an individual takes a substance or engages in a behaviour that is pleasurable but eventually becomes compulsive and harmful. It involves physiological and/or psychological dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal.
What is physical dependence?
Physical dependence is shown by the presence of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if the person suddenly abstains from the drug. The drug is needed to function normally and avoid these symptoms. It often comes with increased tolerance.
What is psychological dependence?
Psychological dependence occurs when a drug becomes central to a person’s thoughts, emotions, and activities. It is shown by a strong urge to use the drug, even when aware of its harmful effects.
What are cravings in addiction?
Cravings are intense desires to repeat the experience of using a drug or activity. If the person abstains, they may feel anxious, unable to cope, and the cravings may dominate their thoughts.
What is tolerance in addiction?
Tolerance occurs when a person’s response to a drug decreases, so larger doses are needed for the same effect. It results from repeated use and can involve learned behaviour, metabolic changes, or changes in receptor density.
What are the 3 types of tolerance?
Metabolic tolerance – body metabolises the drug more efficiently.
Cellular/receptor tolerance – changes in receptor density reduce drug effects.
Learned tolerance – person adjusts behaviour to compensate (e.g. walking slowly when drunk).
What is withdrawal syndrome?
Withdrawal syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur when a person reduces or stops drug use. Symptoms are usually the opposite of the drug’s effects, such as anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and shakiness.
Why do withdrawal symptoms happen?
They occur because the body is adjusting to the absence of a drug it has become dependent on. Just as tolerance develops with use, withdrawal happens when the drug is stopped.
What are the two phases of withdrawal?
Acute withdrawal – begins within hours of stopping, lasting weeks with intense physical cravings.
Post-acute withdrawal (PAWS) – lasts months or years, involving emotional and psychological difficulties as the brain rebalances.
